The Jazz Piano Book

[sudeep]

I bought this book when I first started to get into jazz piano, but felt this book was far too advanced for me.

 

Now, however, I feel I am ready to plunge into it but there is SO much information in it.

 

DO you guys use this book as a reference book only, or did any of you work through all the chapters one by one.

 

Basically im wondering if anyone has any tips on a systematic way of working through this book.

[marino]

I was thinking to respond with the book in hand, but ulp, I can't find my copy! So I'm gonna give some generic advice.

 

I guess it all depends on what level you're starting on. The book is very progessive - you could start at the beginning, and verify your progress with the Practice Tips and Suggested Tunes that are given periodically. Don't rush: You really need to practice every new concept in the context of a number of tunes, and the one Levine gives are always appropriate. If you think you already have one particular technique down, just try to play the suggested tunes with that technique. Perhaps even more important, as you study, listen to those same songs as played by the greats. There is some excellent listening advice in the book itself.

 

Also take into account that musical study is never linear, especially improvisation. You will study like crazy for a while, and nothing will change in your actual solos - then all of a sudden, everything will make sense in the context of a song. It's the right brain taking possession of the info that the right brain learned, and it's an amazing experience every time.

 

My 1/2 cent

[Superbobus]

GREAT book! This - and lots of old jazz CDs - was, and is, a very helpful method for me. Marino is completely right with his remarks about studying and letting all information sink down before it comes out through your hands. Another thing from the book that should be taken seriously:

practice everything in every key!

The exercises and also tunes. Ever tried I Got Rhythm in B?

Take your time.

[Graham English]

It's a great book and will teach you for many years!

Just go from the beginning and take your time. Also, visit my site:

The Art of Sound

I have many free lessons, a newsletter and a free coaching service that will increase your acceleration speed!

Good luck

[Jonah]

This book as well as the New Real Book has been a solid foundation of my practicing for the past four years. Unfortunatetly, I am only a hobbyist, so I am just now nearing the last few chapters.